Two projects lead by faculty from the Department of Mechanical Engineering have been awarded funding from the BC Knowledge Development Fund. The main investment in research infrastructure offered by the Province, “the BCKDF is pivotal to the development of vital research infrastructure, allowing institutions to attract a critical mass of researchers, skilled technicians, and research users.”
Investigating the neurophysiological effects and accumulation of subconcussive sports head impacts
Principal Investigator: Dr. Lyndia Wu
This project investigates the effects of mild head impact and impact accumulation on brain activity, as these can contribute to brain injury even without a concussion. The knowledge gained in this study will contribute to the health of players involved in contact and collision sports, especially children and youth.
Rapid Air Improvement Network (RAIN)
Principal Investigators: Dr. Steven Rogak, Dr. Naomi Zimmerman
Co-investigators: Dr. Amanda Giang, Dr. Patrick Kirchen and Dr. Adam Rysanek, as well as faculty from Chemistry, Geography, Medicine, and the School of Population and Public Health.
RAIN integrates engineering, architecture, policy and air pollution science to study the health and climate impacts of air emissions in BC. The project will develop and test mitigation measures for emissions, which can then be applied beyond the campus.
Both projects have received funding for infrastructure that will support their research goals and contribute to expanding research capabilities at UBC’s Vancouver campus, as well as create health, economic, and environmental benefits for the province.